Introduction
The symptoms of upper respiratory infection in cats depend on which virus caused the infection to develop. In cases where secondary bacterial infections develop, the symptoms often become much more severe.
Symptoms of upper respiratory infections in cats generally appear within one day to two weeks after exposure. The symptoms can last for anywhere from one week to one month depending on how severely the cat is affected by the illness.
Symptoms of URI in Cats
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis Virus
Upper respiratory infections in cats that are caused by the feline viral rhinotracheitis virus, also known as the feline herpes virus, display symptoms that include sneezing and a runny nose, and the eyes often become gooey with discharge. Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and depression are also frequent symptoms associated with the feline rhinotracheitis virus. Pregnant cats that are infected with this virus may have spontaneous abortions.
Feline Calicivirus
Cats that experience upper respiratory infections as a result of the feline calicivirus display different symptoms. Instead of a runny nose and sneezing, these cats have symptoms that are more often associated with the eyes, mouth, and joints. Discharge around the eyes and ulcers in the mouth, in addition to limping from joint pain, are the most common symptoms associated with feline calicivirus. Cats infected with this virus do not normally have a fever.
Additional symptoms that are associated with upper respiratory infections caused by other types of viruses include coughing, a hoarse voice, and ulcers on the nose. If a secondary bacterial infection develops, symptoms such as high fever and severe congestion may occur. In some cases, the congestion can become so severe that the cat has to breathe through the mouth.